The carnival celebrations do present a challenge for the collection and removal of solid waste, which is usually very visible, along the roadways and drains and just about every area that is wantonly used by members of the public, to discard their cups, bottles, plates, foodstuff and other items.
However, according to one supervisor for the crew that was charged with the cleaning of the streets on Monday 26th December, “Boxing Day”, it has become very disconcerting to see revelers deliberately throwing their garbage onto the streets even after the crew would have already cleaned a particular area.
According to the supervisor, “Some citizens would see us cleaning an area, and instead of throwing their garbage in the receptacles in which the collected debris is already being stored, they tend to dispose of it in the area that was just tidied.”
It would appear, said the supervisor that some of our people simply do not care and do not have any pride in themselves and love for their country.
Each year, the cleaning crew could be seen undertaking its duties without complain and conducted in manner that depicts the highest levels of professionalism. They have delivered nothing but first class service, ensuring that within two hours of the conclusion of j’ouvert, the town is again clean and ready for business.
Their invaluable contribution through the work they do is hardly ever recognized and accorded the respect that is deserved. If ever one is to provide an award for outstanding service for carnival, these are the women (and some men) who should be given priority consideration.
As Carnival Day approaches, the Solid Waste Management Crew will again be on the roads, following the parade and cleaning the debris as the troupes and bands make their way to the heart of the city.
If there is one effort we could make as residents, is to cooperate with the team and assist in lightening the burden we place on them to clean our garbage.